Saratoga Springs, New York hosts thousands of racing fans every summer. Many of them return to their annual summer races at the Saratoga race course. The entire city of Saratoga Springs is centered around horse racing when traditional competitions take place, and the nostalgia and history of the race can be found everywhere. The racecourse is just part of the Saratoga experience, and a day in the race is just the beginning of a typical visit. The fun continues after the city’s race, which includes many nighttime dining options that are appealing to racing fans and foodies.
Many restaurants in Saratoga have become institutions themselves and have been part of the Saratoga scene for many years, just like the racetrack itself. If you are planning a foodie in a carriage planning a trip to Saratoga, here is a list of candidates for the classic Saratoga dining venues that have been around for years.
Shiro Restaurants
186 Lincoln Ave., (518) 584-4030, Sirossaratoga.com
There are no more iconic facilities in Saratoga than Shiro. Siro’s, located just outside the venue’s Nelson Avenue Gate, has something to do with every race tracker and is a must-see destination after the race at least for a drink. Most visitors will be drawn to the backyard parties and outdoor live music venues on the prestigious Forstel Dubway. Others will go to Shiro and perhaps enjoy Saratoga’s outstanding dining institutions. If you’re looking for a high-end dining experience that allows you to rub your elbows in the horse racing elite, plan your dinner in Shiro’s indoor dining room. Be prepared to open your checkbook as prices can be shockingly high. Nevertheless, it is fulfilled and reservations are required as in advance as possible.
Breakout Glass
40-42 Lake Ave., (518) 583-1916, www.partingglasspub.com
Almost every town in the world has its own Irish pub, and Saratoga Springs is blessed with one of the best things you can find anywhere outside Ireland itself. The farewell glass was opened on St. Patrick’s Day in 1981 and has been one of the most popular places in town ever since. The facility includes a front room bar and dining room, as well as a large back room with a pool and darts. During the race season, the doors open up to a large car park converted to an outdoor dining terrace. Expect traditional Irish pub dishes and casual favorites, such as burgers and turkey sandwiches. Wash everything off with Guinness. Every night you see more than a significant share of race trackers.
Hatty
45 Phila St., (518) 584-4790, hattiesRestaurants.com
Southern Cooking may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about Saratoga, but it should probably be. Hatty’s restaurant has been offering what is called “great southern goodness” from its quaint home in the heart of downtown Saratoga Springs since 1938. Their fried chicken has won many awards and acclaim, and is perhaps best known for beating chef Bobby Frey in a 2006 slowdown episode with Food Network’s Bobby Frey.
wish
745 Saratoga Road (Rt. 9) In Wilton, (518) 584-7670, www.wishingwellrestaurant.com
Starting on Broadway in the heart of downtown Saratoga, heading north a few miles from town on Route 9, you’ll quickly find yourself in Wishing Well, a classic restaurant that has hosted the personality of almost every racetrack that has been in town since 1936. Enjoy steak, seafood, lobster and traditional American cuisine.
I just missed superfecta:
Mexican Connection, 41 Nelson Avenue, (518) 584-4466
Five Restaurants, 18 Division St., (518) 580–0025
